MSc

Wireless Communications and Radio Frequency Systems Engineering

Key Facts

Course Code F936

  • Qualification

    MSc

  • Course duration

    1 year

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Radio spectrum, part of the wider electromagnetic spectrum, ranges from Very Low Frequency (VLF) to optical frequencies and beyond. It is the soft infrastructure that enables wireless connectivity between places, people and devices through mobile phones, navigation systems, sensor and radar systems, for example. All of these radio systems are integral to the national infrastructure and defence. Extensive growth is anticipated in the field through the development of new radio-system applications to support what is becoming known as the fourth industrial revolution.

The MSc in Wireless Communications and Radio Frequency Systems Engineering at Aberystwyth University covers underlying theory and applications of the radio spectrum, and involves core theory for the field, research-led themes, practical applications, and engineering skills modules.

Typical Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2:2 Bachelors (Honours) degree in a relevant subject area or equivalent. Non-graduates will be considered individually based on relevant work experience.

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Course Overview

This one-year full-time Masters degree at Aberystwyth University will expand your theoretical knowledge and develop your technical, practical and analytic skills to harness the potential of radio spectrum technologies essential for running a modern economy. Taught by research-active staff and industry experts this course aims to develop and enhance the skillset of graduates and professionals already working in the radio spectrum sectors.

The MSc Wireless Communications and Radio Frequency Systems Engineering degree complements the strategy of the UK National Spectrum Centre to bring together academia, government and industry within a spectrum innovation ecosystem.

On this course, you will develop expertise in the software, hardware and theory of radio spectrum engineering to satisfy the growing demand for skilled engineers in industries such as communications, space, aerospace and automotive. You will investigate the importance of managing an increasingly overcrowded electromagnetic spectrum, which is increasingly reliant on advances in technology in remote sensing, autonomous systems and novel material fabrication to satisfy demand.

Working closely with the National Spectrum Centre, you will work alongside radio spectrum researchers and engineers to gain training in spectrum-based innovation, research and development. You will have the opportunity to study a variety of specialist topics such as radar, sensors and devices using research-led, theoretical approaches and practical work. A research project, linked strongly to industry demands and current research topics, will enable you to develop wider skills in research, communication and employability to provide you with a springboard into industry or further academic research.

The UK National Spectrum Centre (NSC)

Based at Aberystwyth University, the National Spectrum Centre (NSC) provides a unique opportunity to address the issues around radio spectrum provision at a time when there is a rapidly growing demand for new applications, such as autonomous land, sea and air vehicles, intelligent farming, the Internet of Things (loT), 5G, and digital health monitoring. The Centre enables the identification, development and demonstration of the enabling technologies necessary to secure, broaden and maximise the value gained for Digital Britain by accessing the electromagnetic spectrum and train the next generation of engineers.

About this course

Degree type: MSc

Course code: F935

Contact time: Approximately 10-14 hours a week in the first two semesters, then mutually agreed contact time with assigned supervisor.

Modules September start - 2024

Please note: The modules listed below are those currently intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change. They are included here to give an indication of how the course is structured.

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

On completion of this course you will have gained advanced knowledge and understanding of the radio spectrum and of electromagnetism and its application to radio-wave propagation and sensing. You will be able to address complex problems in radio and its applications, supported by computer-aided packages, and will have gained additional skills in critical analysis and the interpretation of data, and how to communicate your findings orally and through written reports.

Graduates of this degree will be well placed for employment as engineers, technicians, consultants, researchers and managers.

Teaching & Learning

Core modules that you may study on this course include:

  • Advanced Wireless Networks - 5G and Beyond
  • Electromagnetic Theory and Microwave Devices
  • Antennas and Wave Propagation
  • Professional and Research Skills
  • MSc Project.

You will also study optional modules from a selection available, which currently include:

  • Quality & Engineering Management
  • Project Management Tools and Techniques
  • Programming for Scientists
  • International Strategy and Operations
  • Leading and Managing Projects.

Modes of teaching

The MSc Wireless Communications and Radio Frequency Systems degree is delivered through a combination of lectures, projects and practical workshops.

During the first two semesters (September to May), you will normally have one two-hour seminar per module per week. There will also be additional sessions working towards developing your project. During semester three you will receive support from your assigned project supervisor; contact time time will be by mutual agreement.

Methods of assessment

The course is assessed by workshop exercises, examples, technical reports, formal reports, presentations and examinations.